Skincare Secrets: Stephanie Zubiri Shares Her Evening Skincare Routine
The perfect skincare regimen for your complexion exists, it just takes a good deal of research and practice. However, if you find yourself in a constant loop of hits and misses, make things a tad bit easier for yourself by learning from skincare enthusiasts and specialists. Gone are the days of only dreaming of a flawless face as now we feature various personalities who seem to know the key to achieving their best skin.
This time, the belle of Tatler's Before Bed series is our very own Editor for Tatler Homes, journalist, author and Instagram influencer Stephanie Zubiri. Join Stephanie and discover her skincare secrets, hacks, nightmares and tips:
What's your skin type?
I would say sensitive. I’m prone to redness. It’s also tough because I used to be very oily and now it’s a lot dryer [considering my] age and sun exposure! That’s why I take a more flexible approach. I’m more mindful of what state my skin is in at that moment and try to attend to those needs.
Who or what influenced your skincare routine?
Definitely my mother. She has incredible skin! She is so disciplined in her skincare regimen.
What is your evening skincare routine?
My grandfather was a dermatologist and always stressed the importance of going to sleep with clean skin. I always start by cleaning off dirt and makeup with Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water. Then I wash my face using Innisfree Green Tea Foam Cleanser. Honestly, there are days [when] I forget to put anything else or I’m just exhausted, but I always go to bed with a clean face.
If I have more makeup on, I use a cleansing oil after the micellar water and before the face wash to really get rid of the heavy guck.
As for the other products, it really varies. I try to listen to my skin and cater to its needs, which I feel changes every day. I also use the Dewy Tree Clean Lab AC Dew Calamine Toner, which helps reduce inflammation and redness since I’m prone to allergies. I do love Perricone MD’s High Potency Classics Face Finishing and Firming Moisturizer. It’s not too heavy and is absorbed very quickly. I also like the Cold Plasma+ Eye Cream.
I switch up serums and things when I feel my skin needs something special. I love L’Occitane’s Immortelle Divine Serum when I feel like my skin is a bit dull. I’ll use it for a few days in a row. When I need a bit of a boost and I see some fine lines making an appearance, I’ll use Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair or Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum. And if I feel like my skin is super dry needs proper pampering, I love Sisley’s Black Rose Cream Mask. I also alternate with different kinds of face masks.
I don’t do this every day. I really don’t even moisturise every night, I need my skin to breathe and rest too.
What are your holy grail products? What skincare product can you not live without?
Definitely Bioderma micellar water. I really finish those big bottles, especially after a workout. I use it to feel refreshed. Although not for the evening—I have embraced SPF every day. Every morning, I use Supergoop Glow Screen and Bright-Eyed Mineral Eye Cream which I both love. Lastly, I always have a bottle of Mario Badescu’s pink drying lotion for those pesky pimples that randomly show up. I don’t have a lot, but when they make an appearance, they’re big and mean.
How did you find a skincare routine that works for you? What was your trial and error process?
I’m very fortunate to get sent a lot of products, so I do try quite a bit. Over time, I have learned which ingredients work nicely on my skin. In general, I am drawn to plant-based science and more natural ingredients.
What is a skincare hack you think we should know?
Don’t use too many products in one go to know what is working and what isn’t. The best way to care for your skin is to keep it clean, let it breathe and sleep (I’m always trying to catch up on this.) Also, good skin comes from the inside out. Drink lots of water, and eat whole, clean food. You will be surprised at how [my skin becomes irritated and how terrible] my breakouts are and when I go on a bad food binge.
Do you use facemasks?
I usually mask once a week. I tend to double mask and start with a purifying clay-based mask. I love Skin by Talulah of Tricia Centenera! They have a fantastic charcoal and niacinamide mask that has become a favourite. It really purifies and brightens my skin and doubles up as an exfoliant. Then I follow with a sheet mask or jelly mask for moisture. I have no favourite brand [when it comes to face masks,] but I definitely try a lot of K-beauty masks.
Do you have a beauty or skincare horror story?
Terrible sunburns in my 20's. Just no, please no—wear your sunscreen! My freckles are out of control. They used to be cute, now they gang up on me. I have been trying to brighten them with some vitamin C serums but they keep coming back. I’m also such an outdoorsy girl and need my sunshine. Catch 22!
Read more: Sustainable Beauty: Brands With Zero Carbon Footprint, Certified By 'Climate Neutral'
How often do you practice skin fasting (a break from skincare)?
Very regularly. Maybe every two days. I’ll be good [without using] moisturizer or added product. Sometimes, [I skin fast for] a whole week.
Are there any skincare rules you’ve broken that have done wonders to your skin?
Not really, but I would say regular exercise—like real good sweat—has helped flush the toxins from my skin. It’s done wonders!
Read more: Skincare Secrets: Jess Wilson Shares Her Evening Skincare Routine